323 Alexander Great dies, providing opportunity for an independent state in India. Chandragupta Maurya founds Maurya dynasty, first Indian empire. Its capital is in Patna. By 184, this dynasty will conquer most of India.

304 Chandragupta trades 500 war elephants to Seleucus in exchange for Indus region & regions immediately to West. Ilamcetcenni, Cholas ruler of South India in Sangam Age around 301 BC.

273 - 32 Ashoka, grandson of Chandragupta Maurya & most impressive ruler in Maurya dynasty, rules in India & institutes a series of edicts designed to bring about moral reform. His policy on reform flows from his Buddhist orientation.- Asoka 2001